After winning its fifth regional title at San Diego’s FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) regional robotics competition, Team Holy Cows of High Tech High in Point Loma advanced again this year to the world championships in St. Louis, where team members competed against the top robotics teams from around the world for three days in April.

Although the team has been to the world championship competition before, this year, the Holy Cows excelled to greater heights by earning the Chairman’s Award, the competition’s highest honor.

“Winning this award was quite possibly the proudest and happiest moment of my life,” said Holy Cows team member Carmel Fiscko.

“It’s the first time I put so much of myself into working for a goal. It paid off in a way that has changed my life,” she said.

The award is given each year to the team that demonstrates the greatest commitment to spreading passion about science and technology and embodies the purpose and goals of FIRST.

The Holy Cows showcased their passion for science, technology, engineering and math by mentoring other robotics teams, providing workshops and “CowTips,” and by hosting qualifying tournaments and off-season events, among many other initiatives that have helped transform the culture of education.

“FIRST and The Holy Cows are much more than just engineering and building robots,” said Holy Cows team member Kaithlyn Abulencia.

“Through The Holy Cows,” she said,” I’ve built a passion, a family and a support system. I’ve found something I can put all my time, effort and energy into. Thanks to FIRST and The Holy Cows, I have a set path for my future pursuing a career in mechanical engineering.”